Sometimes life dishes out extraordinary challenges for individuals to deal with that defy logic and threaten to hobble hope and one’s future. And every so often a spectacular story emerges of how a person in the midst of trial deals courageously and unselfishly with those challenges, and turns them into awe-inspiring positive experiences. The story of Patrick Henry Hughes and his dad is one of those stories.
Here’s the link to a short video clip that could very well humble any belief inside you that says, “I have it tough.” And also well up within gratitude for what you do have.
I’ve seen this story many times but it gets better each time I see it. Simply wonderful! Inspiring and uplifting!
Thank you!
Yeah, I’ve seen this once before and got misty-eyed. I watched it again and was touched again. And, Evan, you’re right. Watching the video helps you to stop complaining and realize how blessed you are. Thanks for the inspiring reminder.
I believe I saw this young man in the Pasadena Rose Parade with the band this year. Great story! Thanks Evan!
Leslie
Very moving and inspiring. Thanks for sharing.
We as Christian Scientists need to be extremely careful and alert by NOT choosing this story to represent, or even remotely link this to Christian Science, ourselves as Christian Scientists, and as Teachers of Christian Science. In effect this story tells us that “if we think we have it tough, look at this!” While being interviewed, Patrick Hughes says this: “God made me blind and unable to walk, big deal! He gave me the ability, the musical gifts I have and the great opportunity to meet new people.” This is NOT Christian Science. God does not make people blind! Jesus didn’t praise the blind and the lame for being stoic, nor did he help them function despite their conditions. He HEALED them, instantly.
Hi Allen,
You are correct. God did not make Patrick blind. That is Patrick’s belief. I trust my readers to figure that part out on their own. The blog was posted for all the good it represented, and that’s it. Mostly Patrick’s dad! If all dads were as dedicated to their children as Patrick’s this would be an incredibly benefited world. The love, care, unselfishness, devotion, faithfulness…are incredibly awe-inspiring and examples for others to look up to.
Spiritview is for people with hearts, people who can see the good, acknowledge the good and learn from it, despite the shortcomings yet to be overcome. It’s not about condemning, but about loving, caring and sharing. We all can learn from each other. We don’t have to be perfect humanly to have vital spiritual lessons to share with others. Patrick has many to share and learn from. CS has not been misrepresented. CS is about love. Growing in love is what makes us better healers. And as we are better healers we can help others who think God held something back from them see that God didn’t. They are just as whole and complete in God’s image as anyone else. And I think that’s what you wanted to point out–CS is all about healing. And it certainly is! And love is the way to get there.